Description
Culture & Identity
As a Canadian-born Filipino, I’ve always struggled with my identity. Not quite ‘Filipino’ enough, and not quite fitting into the ‘Canadian’ label. I think this is why it took so long for me to release something like this, something that goes back to my roots. I was afraid of being seen as a fraud – yup, in my own culture.
But I don’t want to hide that anymore or be ashamed to say yeah I’m Filipino and no I can’t speak fluent Tagalog, but I can translate what your Ilocano neighbour is saying. Because as Filipinos, we all have our own stories and we should be damn proud of it.
“Pasok kayo! Kain na.” If you’ve heard this line before, you’ve likely been to a Filipino party. It loosely translates to “Come in, eat!” Whatever the occasion, we’ll find an excuse to celebrate and eat with our loved ones. That’s the values of our culture – family, hospitality, generosity, respect, and always a good time.
‘Mabuhay’ is a Filipino greeting that means ‘Live long’ – because that’s the spirit of the Filipino culture – to welcome you and to inspire you to live with positivity. We’re here to stay and, just like the universally-known greetings ‘Bonjour’ and ‘Aloha’, we say Mabuhay to you.
Today, June 12, marks Philippines Independence Day to commemorate our declaration of independence from Spain in 1898. We celebrate being our own people while honouring the history that our ancestors lived through. And while our history is full of violence, pain, and corruption, our future doesn’t have to be. Our history is also full of beauty and strength – and from it, fostered some of the most resilient, industrious, and joyful people you’ll meet in your lifetime.
‘Pasok’ says ‘Come in, you’re welcome here.’ Regardless if you’re first generation, second generation, Filipino-Canadian, 90 years old or 20, fluent in Tagalog, or you can’t understand shit. If you have Filipino blood running through your veins, you’re welcome here, and you represent the present and future of our people.
6 oz
100% Cotton Jersey
Unisex
Please Note due to Covid-19 Canada Post is experiencing some delays.
